Masters of Architecture Degree Program

The architecture program is the central degree program in the School of Architecture. Two degrees are offered: a five year accelerated Master's of Architecture degree, which is a professional degree fully accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), and a four year Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree. The Master's program is actually a continuation of the undergraduate program, so the curriculum is the same in both programs for the first four years, and traditional high school students are admitted directly into the architecture program. UDM is one of only 4 accredited schools of architecture in the state of Michigan, and the only one at a Jesuit or Mercy institution in all of North America.

The School also admits transfer students at various levels of the program when space is available. Transfer students' records are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and custom curriculum plans are developed for each individual transfer student. Click here for more info. for transfer students.

2-Year Path

For students who hold a Bachelor’s of Science in Architecture degree from another institution, transfer credits are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. It is common that an applicant in this situation may be admitted to the graduate program but will likely require one year of undergraduate coursework prior to entering the master’s thesis sequence. A portfolio is required for applicants who hold an undergraduate degree in architecture.

3-plus Year Path

For students who hold a Bachelor’s degree in another field, transfer credits are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, but it is possible to complete the professional masters degree in architecture in 3-1/2 years.

4-Year Degree

Completing the 4 year (non-professional) bachelor's degree is useful for those individuals wishing to obtain a foundation in the field of architecture, as preparation for either continued education in a master's degree program or for employment options in architecturally related areas or other career paths. We offer the Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree to students who have successfully completed the first four years of study, including one Co-op, but do not wish to pursue the Master of Architecture degree, or were not accepted into the Master of Architecture level of the program.

5-Year Accelerated Masters

Our five-year Master of Architecture degree is accredited by the National Architectural Accreditation Board.* With its strong focus on both the theory and practice of design, it is the recommended degree for students wishing to become practicing architects, since an accredited degree is a requirement for licensure.

University of Detroit Mercy School of Architecture is internationally known for its focus on urban architectural issues, its dedication to sustainable design, and its commitment to community service. At the core of our Architecture degree program is the hands-on rigor of its curriculum. Students will be in the design studio their very first semester and have access to the latest design and presentation technology, collaborating with some of the sharpest young architectural minds in the nation.

Architects combine the creativity of an artist with the analytical mind of an engineer. UDM educated architects exercise their capacity for aesthetic design and technical innovation in the service of their communities, designing classrooms that help students learn better, building homes that use less energy, and preserving the great buildings of yesterday.

Studying architecture prepares students for an exciting and rewarding profession, but our curriculum can also prepare them to be designers in related fields, and to be very effective leaders and creative problem solvers. Studying architecture gives students great critical thinking skills that can translate to many potential careers, but if you stick with architecture you will be busy. It has been estimated that by 2050 we will need to increase our building stock in the U.S. by at least 50%. The opportunities for a rich life-long career in architecture have never been brighter.

"Occupations with Increased Demand - Architecture and Engineering - Increase: 23%As our population grows, so does our need for buildings to live, work and shop in, which is why we need more architects...American jobs in architecture and engineering are forecasted to grow by 16%over the next eight years. Think green, creative and innovative if this is your industry, and the jobs will follow." - financialedge.investopedia.com